There is something irresistibly charming about the Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe that perfectly captures the warmth and comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in a simple, handheld cookie form. This treat combines soft, buttery dough with a cinnamon-sugar swirl that is both sweet and aromatic, making it an ideal cozy snack or delightful dessert. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special treat, or just because, these cookies will fill your kitchen with the nostalgic scent of cinnamon and bring smiles to anyone lucky enough to taste them.

A white plate holds a stack of six small cinnamon rolls with a light golden-brown base and swirls of darker cinnamon brown on top. Each roll has a soft, fluffy texture with thick white icing drizzled unevenly over the top in wide stripes, adding a glossy finish. The rolls are closely packed, creating a cozy, inviting look with their spiral shapes prominent and slightly raised. The background shows a soft, blurred white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe lies in the simplicity and accessibility of its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender all-purpose flour that creates a soft crumb to the brown sugar’s rich molasses flavor that perfectly complements the warm cinnamon spice.

All-purpose flour: Provides a delicate yet sturdy base for the cookie dough’s tender texture.
Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly, keeping them soft instead of dense.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice, infusing the dough and filling with its signature warmth and aroma.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Unsalted butter: Softened to create a rich, creamy dough while controlling saltiness.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps in achieving a crisp edge.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture, depth, and a toffee-like flavor to both dough and filling.
Large egg: Binds ingredients together and adds tenderness.
Vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with its sweet, aromatic notes.
For the filling – Brown sugar and cinnamon: Combined to create the iconic cinnamon swirl that makes this recipe truly special.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when the cookies go in. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This step is essential to evenly distribute the leavening and spices so every bite bursts with that perfect cinnamon flavor.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using softened unsalted butter, cream it together with the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This process traps air in the dough, giving your cookies a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels like a warm hug.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and silky. This adds moisture and gives the dough structure, setting the stage for those beautiful swirls to shine.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; stopping when everything comes together ensures a soft, tender cookie rather than a tough one. The dough should feel pliable but not sticky.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. This simple blend will become the gooey, sweet center of your Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe, giving each cookie that classic cinnamon roll swirl packed with flavor.

Step 6: Assemble the Cookies

Lay out a sheet of parchment paper and spread half of the dough evenly over it, shaping it into a rectangle. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar filling generously across the dough, then carefully roll it up tightly using the parchment paper to help guide the shape. This roll forms the spiral pattern that is both beautiful and bursting with cinnamon goodness.

Step 7: Slice and Bake

Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into even rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Give them enough space to expand, then pop the tray into the oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn a delightful golden brown—this is when you know they’re perfectly baked.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Once baked, you can elevate your Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe by drizzling a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and a splash of milk or vanilla over the cookies. This adds a lovely sweetness and a glossy finish, reminiscent of classic cinnamon roll icing.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a cold glass of milk. The warmth of the beverage complements the cinnamon and sugar flavors beautifully, making every bite a cozy moment to savor.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these cookies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by sprigs of fresh cinnamon sticks or dusted lightly with extra cinnamon powder for a stunning presentation. They also make delightful edible gifts—package them in a pretty tin or wrapping paper tied with twine to share the magic of this recipe with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their softness while preventing them from drying out or becoming stale.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked dough rolls before slicing for up to 2 months. Just wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, slice, and bake as usual. This way, you have fresh cookies anytime the craving hits!

Reheating

If your cookies have cooled and lost a bit of their freshly baked warmth, a quick 10-15 second zap in the microwave or a few minutes in a low oven will revive their soft, gooey texture. Enjoy them warm for the ultimate cinnamon roll cookie experience.

FAQs

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free option?

Yes! Gluten-free flour blends can work well in this Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe, but be sure to choose one that includes xanthan gum or another binder to keep the dough from being too crumbly.

Is it possible to make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely. Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg or other egg substitute. The flavors will remain rich, and the cookies will still have that delightful cinnamon swirl.

How do I prevent the sugar from leaking out while baking?

Rolling the dough tightly and slicing carefully helps keep the filling intact. Using parchment paper to roll also aids in an even, compact roll that reduces sugar leakage.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts added to the filling can provide a lovely crunch, or a handful of raisins can add a sweet surprise inside your Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe.

What’s the best way to make the cookies extra soft?

Don’t overbake them. Pull the cookies out just as the edges turn golden brown, and allow them to cool slightly on the tray. This will keep them soft and tender, reminiscent of fresh cinnamon rolls.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe is truly a warm hug in cookie form, combining simple ingredients with a technique that yields irresistible results every time. It’s perfect for sharing with friends, gifting, or simply indulging yourself on a cozy afternoon. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how these cookies become a quick favorite in your baking repertoire!

Cinnamon Roll Cookies Recipe